You have endeared yourselves to the international Commonwealth community, showing them a State of professional excellence, generosity and goodwill.

Her Majesty The Queen

Mr Premier, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It has been a great pleasure for Prince Philip and me to be back in Western Australia. We have enjoyed this visit immensely and thank all those who have come out to welcome us. We have been overwhelmed by your kindness and support.

Over the years, I have seen how this State has developed: Western Australia has evolved in its own unique style which is distinctive, yet complementary. The rich diversity of this vast State has never been more apparent – from Margaret River wines to the rugged beauty of the Kimberley. And, your proximity to Asia has created opportunities for Western Australia to lead the nation’s economic future in this region.

This past week, the world has come to Perth, as host of the 2011 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. Mr Premier, I offer my congratulations to you and the people of Western Australia on the presentation of a most successful Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

You have endeared yourselves to the international Commonwealth community, showing them a State of professional excellence, generosity and goodwill.

I can think of no more fitting way to end my visit, than here in this idyllic Swan River setting, which I have enjoyed on so many occasions.

Once again, we will return to the United Kingdom with fond memories of our time here and the warm Australian welcome we have received on our 16th visit to this beautiful country.

Did you know?

In an average year, The Queen receives approximately 60,000 pieces of correspondence. For her Diamond Jubilee in 2012, The Queen received over 120,000 cards, letters and gifts. Most of The Queen's correspondence comes from the UK: on average about 75%. 10% comes from Commonwealth countries and 15% from other overseas countries.

Did you know?

The oldest ever recipient of a message from The Queen was a Canadian gentleman, who reached the age of 116 in December 1984.

Did you know?

The Queen meets thousands of people each year in the UK and overseas. Many people ask how they should greet Her Majesty. The simple answer is that there are no obligatory codes of behaviour - just courtesy.
However, many people wish to observe the traditional forms of greeting. For men this is a neck bow (from the head only) whilst women do a small curtsy. Other people prefer simply to shake hands in the usual way.
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